The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends the following: For babies less than 22 pounds, 2 to 4 ounces is needed for each episode of vomiting or diarrhea.
If your baby weighs more than 22 pounds, he/she should drink 4 to 8 ounces of re-hydration solution each time vomiting or diarrhea occurs.
When to call the doctor
Call your doctor at the first sign of dehydration. Your pediciatrion will be able to diagnose your child accurately, and if dehydration is the culprit, they will recommend appropriate treatment.
If you are breastfeeding, most doctors will have you continue. If your baby is being bottle-fed, they might prescribe a solution of half formula and half water (formula diluted to half-strength). Never give a baby soda, juice, or sports drinks when they are dehydrated because these fluids do not contain the proper amount of glucose, sodium, choloride or potassium to properly balance the electrolyte levels affected by dehydration.
If your baby’s case is severe, they may draw blood to check electrolyte levels, and intravenous fluids (IV) could be prescribed if these levels are notably low. It may also be necessary to give fluids by way of a nasogastric (NG) tube (goes from nose to stomach) if dehydration is severe.